The Secret Work of Dreaming

Most of us know the value of a good night’s sleep, but understanding what happens when we dream may hold vital clues to our brain health. Rapid eye movement (REM) is a stage during the sleep cycle where dreaming takes place, and has been strongly linked to memory, learning, and even the risk of developing dementia.¹

Why REM Sleep Matters

When we drift into rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, our brains light up with activity. Far from being random, dreams can reflect the deeper workings of our brains — processing emotions, consolidating memories, and supporting learning. Increasingly, research suggests that disruptions to this dreaming stage may play a role in long-term brain health, including the risk of dementia.²

Dreams and Memory

REM sleep is closely tied to memory. During this stage, the brain strengthens neural connections and pathways that help us learn and recall information. Studies have found that people who experience less REM sleep, or whose dreaming is disrupted, may face faster cognitive decline. In fact, changes in dreaming patterns have been linked to earlier signs of dementia years before diagnosis.³

The Role of Sleep Apnea

Another important factor is sleep apnea, which can often strike during the REM sleep stage. During REM sleep, muscles in the body can relax more deeply and, consequently, increase the likelihood of the airway collapsing. This can lead to more non-breathing events and drops in oxygen levels throughout the night, which disrupts sleep. Recent research shows that this disruption may accelerate memory problems, particularly in people already at risk of Alzheimer’s disease.¹

The good news is that sleep apnea can often be treated with a CPAP machine. CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) is a bedside device that blows gentle air down the airways, eliminating symptoms of sleep apnea.

Why Paying Attention to Dreams Matters

Dreaming is more than just the mind’s late-night entertainment; it can be an important indicator of brain health. REM sleep offers a glimpse into long-term neurological wellbeing, making it a vital yet often overlooked part of protecting memory and cognition. When dreaming is disrupted, whether by sleep apnea or other sleep disturbances, studies show a higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia.^2,4

By taking steps to improve sleep quality now, you may be safeguarding both your memory and your quality of life in the years to come.

If you’ve noticed changes in your sleep or dreams and feel concerned, speak to your doctor or reach out to us at Sove CPAP Clinic.

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How Sove CPAP Clinic Can Help

Founded in 2008, Sove CPAP Clinic has grown to become a leading provider of respiratory and sleep services and products in Australia, with over 60 clinics nationwide. Our comprehensive clinical team includes Respiratory & Sleep Specialists, Sleep Technologists, and CPAP Consultants, ensuring that you receive comprehensive and personalised care. All medical procedures, including sleep studies and lung function testing, are bulk billed to all Australians, with minimal wait time.

If you would like to speak to a Respiratory & Sleep Physician, book a bulk-billed sleep study, or seek advice for your sleep apnea, you can reach us at 1300 76 29 39 or info@thecpapclinic.com.au.

ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply.

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References

Otaiku, A. I. (2022). Distressing Dreams, Cognitive Decline and Risk of Dementia: A Prospective Study of Three Population-Based Cohorts. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4145602

Neylan, T. C., & Walsh, C. M. (2023). Wake, NREM, and REM Sleep Measures Predict Incident Dementia. SLEEP, 47(3). https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/zsad329

Lui, K. K., et al. (2024). Older adults at greater risk for Alzheimer’s disease show stronger associations between sleep apnea severity in REM sleep and verbal memory. Alzheimer’s Research & Therapy, 16(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13195-024-01446-3

Malkani, R. G., & Wenger, N. S. (2021). REM Sleep Behavior Disorder as a Pathway to Dementia. Current Sleep Medicine Reports, 7(3), 57–64. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40675-021-00206-1